THINGS TO DO
ON VACATION IN MAINE
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On the Water in Maine is proud to recognize that we have several vacation rental properties in 6 of the best 15 Small Town Getaways as ranked by Down East magazine recently in their April 2008 issue… Fifteen great escapes off the beaten trail – Down East Magazine. In addition to linking to the article at the left, we have captured their rankings off of their website and posted it below. We give full credit to Down East Magazine, the magazine of Maine, for putting together this great and resourceful list. |
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Birdwatch In Jonesport
For birders looking to fill out their life lists, Jonesport — way Down East in Washington County — offers one-stop watching. First, take a boat ride with Captain John E. Norton (www.machiassealisland.com) to remote Machias Seal Island to see puffins, razorbills, and murres. Then in the afternoon drive across the causeway to Beal’s and scout for boreal chickadees, spruce grouse, and bay-breasted warblers in the Nature Conservancy’s sanctuary, a wilderness of jack pines and peat bogs on Great Wass Island.
Make a Night of It: For fried seafood and chowder grab a seat with the local fishermen at Tall Barney’s (www.tallbarneys.com), a folksy Maine institution if ever there was one.
Our Downeast Properties are all located around Jonesport |
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Wander the Trail in Lincolnville
Lincolnville Beach has recently been revamped into a worthy, albeit small, Route 1 seaside destination, but venture inland just a few miles and you’ll find some of the most spectacular hiking around. Bald Rock boasts a great view of Penobscot Bay, stretching all the way out, on a clear day, to Blue Hill and Acadia. Or stroll along the Ducktrap River, an environmentally protected refuge for endangered Atlantic salmon. Lincolnville Beach is also home to the ferry to Islesboro, so you can grab your bike and take the three-mile voyage across Penobscot Bay for a morning of island riding among some of the state’s most exclusive driveways (say hi to Kirstie Alley and John Travolta while you’re over there).
Make a Night of It: For dinner, treat yourself to chef Brian Dame’s innovative entrees at the Edge restaurant or try the Whale’s Tooth Pub for affordable fish and chips, Black and Tan, and the most impressive fireplace in town.
All our Northport, Lincolnville, Ducktrap, Bayside, Camden, Hope, and Searsmont properties are close to these trails. |
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Tarry in Tremont
It’s called the “Quiet Side” of Mount Desert Island for a reason, this western shore allows you to escape the crowds and traffic of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Tremont is a town of many communities, such as Bernard and Bass Harbor and even the village of Quietside, all of them linked by the island’s excellent (and free) propane-powered bus network (www.exploreacadia.com/times_bus7.html) that lets visitors explore without constantly searching for a parking spot. You can also rent bicycles at Southwest Cycle (www.acadia info.com/swcylce.htm) in nearby Southwest Harbor and two-wheel your way to the amazing views at Bass Harbor Head Light (www.acadiamagic.com/BassHarborLight). Those bikes also come in handy when you take the ferry (www.maine.gov/mdot/opt/ferry/215-swan.php) from Bass Harbor to Swans Island, one of Maine’s few remaining year-round island communities and a place even quieter than the “Quiet Side,” but well worth the visit.
Make a Night of It: It’s a rare visitor who leaves without enjoying the steamed lobsters, mussels, and blueberry pie at Thurston’s Lobster Pound (207-244-7600) on the harbor.
All our Acadia properties are close to this location.
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Beachcomb in Phippsburg
The strand at Popham Beach State Park happens to be one of the most austerely beautiful places in the state. But with this beauty also comes popularity. On the next sunny day, keep driving a bit farther on Route 216 and discover Head Beach, between Small Point and Hermit Island. This pocket beach is the perfect place to catch stripers, comb the beach for sand dollars, or soak up the sun with a good book. On your way to the shore take the scenic detour along Parker Head Road for a breathtaking drive, stopping at the North Creek Farm (www.northcreekfarm.org) at the corner of 209 and 216 for fresh flowers and picnic fare for your day at the beach.
Make a Night of It: Anna’s Water’s Edge restaurant (www.thewatersedgerestaurant.com) is just a few minutes drive for dinner and has great seafood and even better homemade desserts.
Our Popham Beach Estate property is located in Phippsburg, and our Happy Nook and Cowseagan properties are not far away either. |
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Paint in Port Clyde
Located at the tip of the St. George peninsula, a twenty-minute drive from Thomaston down Route 131, Port Clyde is an iconic fishing village right out of an Andrew Wyeth painting. Which makes sense when you learn that Wyeth actually owns an island (Allen Island), two miles off Port Clyde. Jamie Wyeth owns another, and U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts (who harbors no artistic talents, as best we know) is also a summer island resident. Other artsy notables include Greg Mort and Barbara Ernst Prey. So clearly there’s something in the Port Clyde area to inspire the meeting of palette and paintbrush. It could be the picture-perfect Marshall Point Lighthouse, or sweet galleries like the Gallery-by-the-Sea (www.gallerybythesea.com). Or it might be the proximity of Monhegan Island, where Rockwell Kent, Edward Hopper, and James Fitzgerald made masterpieces, and where contemporary artists keep open studios. (A daytrip on the Monhegan Boat, www.monheganboat.com, is de rigueur for all visitors).
Make a Night of It: For dinner the Dip Net (www.dipnetrestaurant.com), outside the Port Clyde General Store, offers arguably the finest dockside dining in the state.
All our St George properties are located near Port Clyde, part of that town. Additionally, this is great spot to visit from all our Midcoast Properties |
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Take It Slow in Mount Vernon
Each summer thousands of tourists head inland to relax at well-known destinations like the Belgrade lakes. But many of these lakegoers miss the small town of Mount Vernon, nestled against Flying Pond and Parker Pond, where a whole lot of summer fun can be found without the crowds. Shop at the Corner (207-293-2383) and Lakeside Serendipity (207-293-3714), two stores right in the village that sell unique, Maine-made products and collectibles, respectively. If the kids are not satisfied with the relaxing pace of this quaint village, take them to see the lions and tigers (not sure about the bears, though) at the D.E.W. Animal Kingdom exotic animal farm (www.dewanimalkingdom.com).
Make a Night of It: The Olde Post Office Café (207-293-4978) is the perfect pit stop for delectable picnic supplies.
Our Bright Pines Lodge is located here on Parker Pond.
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MORE THINGS TO DO...
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Visit a State or National Park |
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Downeast & Acadia · Bar Harbor |
Located on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park encompasses over 47,000 acres of granite-domed mountains. America's smallest National Park is well worth a day trip or longer. |
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Mid-Coast · Camden & Lincolnville |
30 miles of hiking trails with access from five major trailheads. Hike to the top of Mt Megunticook, the tallest coastal mountain peek until you reach Brazil going south. |
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Greater Portland & Casco Bay · Freeport |
233 acres; Dedicated to nature appreciation, the park provides interpretive signs on trails and guided programs for groups. |
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Mid-Coast · Georgetown |
Visitors will find ample picnic areas, most with charcoal grills, a snack bar, and bathhouses with freshwater showers and one of the best sandy beaches in all of New England. |
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Mid-Coast · Jefferson |
17 acres; sand beach swimming area with a lifeguard; a group use shelter and playing field; changing rooms; drinking water - a great day trip! |
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Mid-Coast · Liberty |
Swimming area with lifeguard in season. Lake St George is one of the Midcoast's most beautiful lakes. |
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Mid-Coast · Phippsburg |
Just ranked one of the top beaches on the eastern US, this 529 acres spacious sandybeach, with bathhouses, freshwater rinse-off showers, and a picnic area with charcoal grills, trails and wildlife watching. Fort Popham is two miles further south on Route 209. |
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Mid-Coast, Downeast & Acadia · Prospect |
The Fort Knox State Historic Site and new Penobscot Narrows Observatory are outstanding examples of 19th and 21st Century engineering marvels. The new Penobscot Narrows Observatory, which opened in May 2007, allows visitors to ride an elevator 420' feet above the Penobscot River, for 100-mile panoramic views of the Penobscot River Valley. The Observatory is part of the award winning cable stayed Penobscot Narrows Bridge that was constructed to replace the Waldo-Hancock Bridge. Fort Knox represents one of the best preserved Civil War era forts in the country. This massive granite fortification overlooks the Penobscot River and is rich with interpretive displays. |
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Downeast & Acadia · Roque Bluffs |
Rogue Bluff State Park in the town of Rogue Bluff about six miles off US Route 1, is a unique day use area. With its pebble beach on the ocean and freshwater pond, it provides both fresh and saltwater swimming. Dramatic cliffs along Maine's Bold Coast provide for spectacular views and for early-risers, dramatic sunrises. |
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The Maine Beaches · Saco |
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117 acres; miles of white sand beaches between the Saco River and Pine Point; swimming; changing room; picnic area; nature trails; guided nature programs available. |
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Mid-Coast · Swanville |
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67 acres;picnic area; playground; group shelter area for reunions and other large gatherings; swimming area with lifeguard supervision. |
Visit a Lighthouse
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Mid-Coast · Bath to Deer Isle |
About half of the Mid-Coast lighthouses are accessible from land, while the others are accessible only by boat. |
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Downeast · Deer Isle to Calais |
Some of Maine's prettiest lighthouses. |
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Greater Portland & Casco Bay · Freeport |
Go Whale Watching
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Mid-Coast · Port Clyde or New Harbor |
Although not the focus of the boat trip - you may see whales on these popular trips to Monhegan Island 10 miles off the coast of Maine. Between Boothbay and Bar Harbor, this is really the only boat trip that may offer that opportunity to see a Minke whale. You will likely see porpoises however. |
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Mid-Coast · Boothbay |
Several companies offer whale watching trips out of Boothbay, one hour south of the Camden/Rockland area, or one hour north of the Portland area. |
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Downeast & Acadia · Bar Harbor |
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There are a few choices for whale watching trips in the Bar Harbor area, 2 hours north of the Camden/Rockland area. Humpbacks, Finbacks, and Minke whales are the more commonly seen whales in this area. |
Take a Boat Trip
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Monhegan Mailboat |
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Mid-Coast · Port Clyde |
Head to Monhegan Island and prepare to lose your heart to the island that time forgot. A thriving fishing village as well as an historic artist's colony, Monhegan beckons to nature lovers, photographers, artists, writers, poets, and every traveler in search of a truly unspoiled hideaway. On this rugged, sea-ringed haven, you can hike 17 miles of trails through towering evergreens and along the shore, visit art galleries and studios, and find special keepsakes in simple gift shops. On the eastern edge of the island, the cliffs offer awe-inspiring views of crashing surf far below. It's a spectacular place for a picnic. While on the island, you will also want to visit the Monhegan Museum up at the lighthouse, which has been devotedly developed by island residents. Its exhibits chronicle the island's history, flora, and fauna. |
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Mid-Coast · Camden |
Let the "Olad" show you Penobscot Bay, with its rocky shoreline, lighthouses, seals, bald eagles, islands, lobster boats and hidden mansions. Schooner Olad sails daily from Camden, Maine; Memorial Day weekend to mid-October. Schooner Olad offers historic two-hour daysails aboard a completely restored, classic yacht. |
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Mid-Coast · Rockport |
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Lobster Lunch Sail, Lighthouse/Wildlife Sails, Gourmet Sunset Sail and Custom Charters
sailing daily from beautiful and historic Rockport Harbor, Maine.
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Mid-Coast · Stonington |
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An hour and half drive from the Camden/Rockland area, this day trip should be on your agenda. Get up early and drive the beautiful scenic drive to Stonington to catch the first mailboat to the island of Isle au Haut. Over 60% of this large island is part of Acadia National Park. A naturalists' and artists' Nirvana, and total "get away from it all" experience, Isle au Haut offers the opportunity for visitors to explore the unmatched natural beauty of the most remote sector of Acadia National Park. There are 18 miles of hiking trails accessed by one circuitous, mostly dirt, road. Wind your way through forest, ledges, marshes and shore with no distractions save for the sea song, the cry of the gulls, and a lobster boat or two working the bay. Chance to catch a seal frolicking in the surf, or a bald eagle riding the thermals; enjoy a trail with only you on it. |
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Mid-Coast · Camden |
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Discover the Maine you can only see from the water… Watch the working lobster boats, see the large Maine windjammers under sail, look for sea birds (including eagles), and porpoise playing in the bay. The sights and sounds of Penobscot Bay will delight and relax you. Capt. Bex has over 35 years of sailing experience, and narrates each trip. You'll learn a little about lobstering, see and hear some history of the large estates along the coast and out on the islands, and find out how the "Betselma" got her name.
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Take a Hike
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Mid-Coast · Camden & Lincolnville |
30 miles of hiking trails with access from five major trailheads. This park, made up mostly of low setting mountains, offers some outstanding views of Penobscot Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The highest mountain in this group is Mount Megunticook at 1,380 ft has a great spot to view Penobscot Bay called Ocean Lookout. The trail begins at the Camden Hills State Park Headquarters and gradually climbs 1.4 miles to the lookout. There are parts of the trail which are steep. There is a 5.4 mile loop trail that can be accessed from the state park headquarters. The Bald Rock hiking trail is another popular and easy hike. |
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Mid-Coast · Camden, Thomaston, Rockport, Hope, Lincolnville, Searsmont |
Mid-Coast Maine's version of the "Appalachian Trail", the Georges Highland Path currently offers over 30 miles of connected, low-impact hiking trails. Purposely designed to protect the natural setting and avoid causing erosion, it is a simple, narrow footpath developed almost exclusively with hand tools. There are several access points along the trail where people can pick-up and start, or finish their hike. |
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Downeast & Acadia · Bar Harbor |
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Mount Desert Island has a well maintained and well marked network of trails. It is also home to the famous Carriage Trails. There are 120 miles of networked hiking trails and 50 miles of carriage trails. Contact the National Park Service for detailed trail information
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Mid-Coast · Stonington |
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An hour and half drive from the Camden/Rockland area, this day trip should be on your agenda. Get up early and drive the beautiful scenic drive to Stonington to catch the first mailboat to the island of Isle au Haut. Over 60% of this large island is part of Acadia National Park. A naturalists' and artists' Nirvana, and total "get away from it all" experience, Isle au Haut offers the opportunity for visitors to explore the unmatched natural beauty of the most remote sector of Acadia National Park. There are 18 miles of hiking trails accessed by one circuitous, mostly dirt, road. Wind your way through forest, ledges, marshes and shore with no distractions save for the sea song, the cry of the gulls, and a lobster boat or two working the bay. Chance to catch a seal frolicking in the surf, or a bald eagle riding the thermals; enjoy a trail with only you on it. |
Dine Where You Can Experience Maine Food
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Primo - $$$$ |
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| Mid-Coast · Rockland |
Most vacation homeowners in the Mid-Coast area like to list their homes by DTP (Distance to Primo). Perhaps the best restaurant in all of Maine, Primo is not on the water, but has great food. A world-class restaurant inside a restored Victorian home in coastal Maine, Primo's chefs use the freshest possible ingredients put to imaginative use in dazzling recipe. The kitchen is known for producing rustic favorites and back-to-basics treasures.  |
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Mid-Coast · South Thomaston |
A place where the locals go to eat Lobster. Their menu consists of steamed lobsters (fresh from the day's catch), plump, sweet steamed clams, lobster & crab rolls stuffed with freshly picked meat, hot dogs, delicious homemade salads, beverages - no alcohol (but BYOB is fine - everyone does it in a cooler) and our freshly baked homemade pies (made from an old family recipe - rhubarb, raspberry, blueberry, lemon sponge and pecan). They are the best!
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Mid-Coast · Tenants Harbor |
There are many options when eating at the Cod End Cookhouse; you may sit on the deck and take in the wonderful views of the harbor, sit inside, or get everything packed up to go. Whether it's lobster, clams, fish, chowder, burgers, sea baskets, pies or ice cream, they have it all! |
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Mid-Coast · Tenants Harbor |
Dine on the freshest seafood and enjoy the harbor view. The East Wind's menu is a sparkling blend of tradition and inspiration, based on the freshest ingredients. With the cold, clear Atlantic waters just a stones throw from your table, that can be as fresh as today's catch! |
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Mid-Coast · Camden |
Our favorite restaurant for dining in Camden. Give up the water views for this spectacular dining experience.Ephemère Cafe...A little touch of Europe in downtown Camden, is a dining pleasure you won't want to miss! Enjoy delectable dishes starting at 4:30 p.m. from the Lightfare Menu. We have french onion soup, salads, shepherd's pie, lobster ravioli & more. Dinner entrees include: haddock, duck, beef, scallops, lamb, porterhouse pork chop, and our signature dish- gingerbread lobster |
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Mid-Coast · Lincolnville |
Perhaps the best views of the water of any restaurant in Maine. Perched on the shores of Penobscot Bay, adjacent to the Inn at Ocean's Edge, The Edge's daily menu highlights a bounty of fresh local products prepared in an open kitchen and wood fired oven. Chef Bryan Dame's inventive and whimsical variations on classic New England cuisine, The Edge's classic cocktails, extensive wine list and arresting views are sure to delight the senses. The Edge is open to the public and the attire is casual. |
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Suzuki's Sushi Bar - $$$ |
Mid-Coast · Rockland |
Okay - not a Maine themed restaurant, but still, it's the best Sushi in Maine and they use fresh local seafood. |
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Mid-Coast · Lincolnville |
Right at Lincolnville Beach, this restaurant, one of the most recommended in the Camden, Rockport, Lincolnville area serves seafood specials, Maine shrimp and fresh steamed lobsters during the summer season. Not in the mood for seafood? They also offer juicy prime rib, perfectly charbroiled steaks, and intricate pasta dishes complete our extensive menu. Local, Lincolnville brewed Andy's English Ale is free flowing on tap. Family owned and run, this friendly staff will help make your visit to the Whale's Tooth a memorable occasion. |
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Mid-Coast · Belfast |
With wraps like "To-Thai-For", "Mr Potato Head", and "Jimmy the Greek", this fun lunchtime destination has something for everyone. Bay Wrap believes that WRAPS are multicultural, high quality meals. They hope you love this healthy approach to fast food as much as we love providing it. |
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Mid-Coast · Woolwich |
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A fun place to stop on your way into the Mid-Coast area. This historic restaurant on Route 1 features 2 levels of sumptuous food, great libations, live entertainment, plus pool tables, dart boards, and a foosball table for the kids. Their smoking room is fully screened-in and separate from the restaurant to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
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Take a Guided Fishing Trip
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Mid-Coast · Warren |
Super Fly Charters offers friendly, professional service that not only caters to the most experienced light tackle enthusiast, but also to the novice angler looking to gain experience through on-the-water experience. Although they specialize in sight casting flats, they also cast flies, lures and live bait into powerful tidal rips, eddies, and bold ocean washed ledges. Captain George is a hard working guide who doesn't punch a time clock. Simply put, their goal is to exceed the needs of their clients, making their day on the water an unforgettable experience. |
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Mid-Coast · Camden |
When visiting the Mid-Coast, treat yourself or your family to a time they will always remember: a beautiful day on one of our picturesque lakes, ponds or rivers. Master Maine Guide Ken Bailey will meet you in Camden or Rockport for the start of your Maine adventure. Enjoy a leisurely boat outing on local waters, with fishing, picnicking or sightseeing as you prefer, with your guide there to assist you throughout the day
Local fishing for smallmouth and largemouth bass is excellent from mid-May through October. Brown trout, rainbow trout, white perch and pickerel are also available in our crystal-clear lakes, ponds and rivers. They fish from a fully-equipped Tracker bass boat; all fishing gear is provided |
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Lightfoot Guide Service - 236-0574 - Fresh & Saltwater |
Mid-Coast · Rockport |
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Saltwater tours, saltwater fishing, freshwater bass fishing and fly fishing, native tours, snowmobile trips and camping all year round. |
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Mid-Coast · Belfast |
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Maine Fishing Charters caters to families as well as the serious fisherman. Many families are looking to find a break from the road, and want to go Fishing on the Maine ocean. This is where mom and dad along with the kids can fish for Mackerel, Striped Bass, or Blue Fish. |
Plan Some Fun For Kids
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We are often asked about things to do for kids in Maine. While Maine has two amusement parks (in southern Maine), it is not known for mechanical fun tools. Hiking, Biking, and getting back to nature are all fun things for kids. If your kids are between the ages of 8 & 14, why not enroll them in a sailing class for the week at a local yacht or boat club - almost every coastal town has one. Are your children under the age of 8? Take them to the beach. Maine's rocky beaches are a wonderland of fun for kids. Turning over rocks to find crabs and snails, or wading in the cool ocean waters until their lips turn blue are what every kid who grows up in coast Maine has experienced.
There are lots of great parks and museums to visit. Fort Knox in Stockton Springs, just north of Belfast is a great spot to take kids of all ages. Most of this historic Civil War era fort is open to the public and the kids will love hiding in the dungeon like tunnels and climbing on the cannons. The Owls Head Transportation Museum in Owls Head is fun for children of all ages. With airplanes and historic cars to watch in action, even Dad will love this museum.
How about the beach? There are many small public sandy beaches around the state, and in the Mid-Coast towns of Camden, Rockport, Lincolnville, Owls Head, and Popham, you'll find lots of places to build sand castles.
Hiking just isn't for adults. Many of the trails at Monhegan Island, Camden Hills State Park, and Acadia National Park are easy enough that even a 4 year old can get along okay (at least ours does).
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2008 Mid-Coast Events Calendar
North Atlantic Blues Fesitval, Rockland - July 12th-13th
Harbor Arts & Craft Show, Camden - Jul 19th-20th
Maine Lobster Festival, Rockland - Jul 30th - Aug 3rd
Maine Boats, Homes and Harbors Boat Show, Rockland Aug 8 -10th
Maine Antique Show, Union Aug 8 - 10th
Union Fair/Wild Maine Bluberry Festival, Union - Aug 17th-23rd
14th Annual Windjammer Weekend, Camden - Aug 29th - 31st
Common Ground Country Fair, Unity - Sep 19th-21st
Fall Harbor Arts & Craft Show, Camden - Oct 4 - 5th
Lincolnville Harvest Festival, Lincolnville - Oct 18 - 19th
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